Staff Training Practices to Improve Patient and Family Engagement

Effective caregiver support starts with staff training and accessible resources. A coordinated, system-wide approach improves experiences for patients, caregivers, and care teams.

Explore Key Practices

This publication highlights practical strategies to enhance patient and family engagement. Learn more about how to: 

• Train all staff roles: Engage nurses, social workers, physicians, and other team members on the importance of engaging family caregivers and how to do it effectively.
  
  
• Use real-world scenarios: Incorporate simulations and teach-back techniques to reinforce learning and practical application.
  
  
• Embed caregiver support in onboarding: Introduce new staff to family caregiver roles and engagement strategies as part of their initial training.
  
  
• Track training in HR systems: Monitor participation and progress to ensure consistency and accountability across the organization.

Explore the full publication to understand the supporting evidence and learn how to implement each approach effectively in your care setting.

Find all the publications in AARP’s Promising Practices Publication Series for Health Care Leaders.